Were heading back in time today as we focus on a classic moment in Australian rugby history from almost fifty years ago, when the Springboks were defeated at home in consecutive Tests for the first time since 1896.
The powerful Springboks were a dominant force in the game at the time with their massive pack and die-hard supporters. A total of 65 000 of them turned out at Ellis Park for the third Test in the series.
The previous game had been won by the tourists after their coach, Bill McLaughlin, famously changed their approach to the game.
“Im sick of this ball straight to the 5/8 and kicking for touch” said McLaughlin. “Australian teams have always been known for running the ball, and thats what well do from now on.”
The third Test was to be their 21st match of the tour. Tours were incredibly long back then, at times spanning up to five or six months. The endurance of the players was incredible, and its a wonder they had anyone left after such a long time, with so many games.
The Wallabies did run the ball, as McLaughlin planned for them too, and they came away with the 11-9 win, thanks in part to two superb try saving tackles by the brilliant scrumhalf Ken Catchpole.
It was a fantastic win and this is a great piece of footage for you fans out there who love watching classic moments and series of the game.
Time: 03:05
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